If you are researching liposuction in Portland, OR, you likely have questions about how the procedure works, whether you are a good candidate, what recovery involves, and what realistic results look like. This liposuction FAQ guide provides clear, honest, medically grounded information so you can make a confident, informed decision. Dr. Michael Bohley, a double board-certified plastic surgeon serving Portland and the surrounding region, is committed to patient education and transparency at every step. Browse the answers below, then contact our team to schedule a personalized consultation.
Schedule your liposuction consultation with Dr. Bohley in Portland today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Liposuction in Portland, OR
What is liposuction and how does it work?
Liposuction is a surgical body contouring procedure designed to remove localized deposits of fat that have not responded to diet and exercise. During the procedure, a thin tube called a cannula is inserted through small incisions and used to loosen and suction out targeted fat cells. Dr. Bohley develops a highly individualized treatment plan for each patient, taking into account the specific areas of concern, skin quality, and desired outcome. Individual results may vary. Learn more on our dedicated liposuction Portland OR procedure page.
What areas of the body can liposuction address?
Liposuction may help reduce the appearance of unwanted fat in several areas, including the abdomen, flanks, hips, thighs, upper arms, back, chin, and neck. Some patients combine liposuction with complementary procedures such as a tummy tuck in Portland to address both excess fat and loose skin in the abdominal region simultaneously. Dr. Bohley will evaluate your specific anatomy and goals during a consultation to determine which treatment approach may be most appropriate for you. Individual results may vary.
What is the difference between liposuction and a tummy tuck?
Liposuction removes localized fat deposits but does not address loose or excess skin. A tummy tuck, also called an abdominoplasty, removes excess skin and may tighten weakened abdominal muscles in addition to addressing fat. For patients who have experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy, a combination approach may be recommended. Dr. Bohley will help you understand which procedure, or combination of procedures, aligns with your individual anatomy and goals. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to receiving an appropriate recommendation.
Am I a good candidate for liposuction?
Good candidates for liposuction are generally adults who are at or near a stable, healthy weight, have good skin elasticity, and have specific areas of diet-resistant fat they would like to address. Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure or a substitute for healthy lifestyle habits. Patients who smoke may be advised to quit prior to surgery to support healing. Dr. Bohley conducts a thorough evaluation of your health history, anatomy, and goals to determine candidacy and develop a plan appropriate to your individual needs. Individual results may vary.
Who may not be a good candidate for liposuction?
Patients with certain underlying health conditions, significant skin laxity, unrealistic expectations about outcome, or who are substantially above their goal weight may not be ideal candidates for liposuction as a standalone procedure. Dr. Bohley takes a thorough, honest approach to candidacy assessment because patient safety and realistic outcomes are priorities. He may recommend alternative or complementary procedures, or suggest addressing other health factors prior to scheduling surgery. A consultation is the only way to receive a recommendation specific to your circumstances.
What can I expect during my liposuction appointment and on the day of surgery?
Prior to your procedure, you will have a detailed consultation with Dr. Bohley to discuss your goals, review your medical history, and ask any remaining questions. On the day of surgery, a board-certified anesthesiologist will administer your anesthesia, which is a meaningful safety distinction at Dr. Bohley’s accredited, state-certified ambulatory surgical facility. The procedure length varies depending on the number and size of treatment areas. You will receive thorough pre-operative and post-operative instructions to help prepare you for a smooth experience.
How long does liposuction take, and how long do results last?
Procedure time depends on the areas being treated and the volume of fat being addressed, but many liposuction procedures take between one and three hours. The fat cells removed during liposuction do not return; however, remaining fat cells can still expand with significant weight gain. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle after your procedure supports long-term outcomes. Individual results may vary, and Dr. Bohley will set realistic expectations during your consultation so you have an honest picture of what to anticipate.
What is recovery like after liposuction?
Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort in the days following liposuction. A compression garment is typically worn during the initial recovery period to support the treated areas and help with swelling. Many patients return to light daily activities within one to two weeks, though more strenuous exercise is usually restricted for a longer period. Swelling can continue to resolve for several weeks to months, and final contour results may take time to fully appear. Dr. Bohley provides detailed, individualized post-operative instructions to guide your recovery. Individual results may vary.
Is liposuction safe, and what are the common risks?
Liposuction is a well-established surgical procedure when performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited facility. As with any surgery, risks exist, including infection, changes in sensation, contour irregularities, fluid accumulation, and anesthesia-related concerns. Dr. Bohley is certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, and his surgical facility is state-certified with a board-certified anesthesiologist on site for all general anesthetics. These measures reflect a serious commitment to patient safety. During your consultation, Dr. Bohley will explain all relevant risks honestly and thoroughly so you can make a fully informed decision.
Do you serve patients from outside Portland, such as Salem, Vancouver, or Lake Oswego?
Yes. Dr. Bohley’s practice serves patients throughout the greater Portland region, including Salem, Vancouver, Lake Oswego, Hood River, The Dalles, and surrounding communities. Many patients travel to Portland specifically to work with a double board-certified plastic surgeon with deep regional roots and a well-established reputation for individualized care. If you are traveling for your procedure, our team can help answer questions about logistics during your consultation. We welcome patients from across the Pacific Northwest who are seeking a trusted, experienced surgical partner.
What makes Dr. Bohley’s practice in Portland a distinctive choice for liposuction?
Dr. Bohley holds dual board certifications from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, completed advanced surgical training at nationally recognized institutions, and maintains membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He is also recognized as an Allergan Partner Privileges Gold Member for 2026. His stated specialty is body procedures, and he is well known in the Portland region for meticulous, individualized results. You can review our patient gallery and read patient testimonials to learn more about the experience and outcomes others have had.
How much does liposuction cost in Portland, and are financing options available?
The cost of liposuction varies based on several factors, including the number of treatment areas, the complexity of the procedure, anesthesia fees, and facility costs. Because Dr. Bohley develops a highly individualized treatment plan for each patient, an accurate cost estimate can only be provided following a personal consultation. Financing options may be available to help make your procedure accessible. Visit our financing options page for more information, and contact our team to schedule your consultation and receive a personalized quote.
Why Choose Dr. Michael Bohley for Liposuction in Portland, OR?
Dr. Bohley is one of the Portland region’s few double board-certified plastic surgeons, holding certifications from both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. His surgical training spans nationally recognized academic institutions and a locally embedded residency program, giving him both rigorous academic preparation and deep regional experience. Body procedures are his stated specialty, and he is well known throughout Portland, Salem, Vancouver, and Lake Oswego for his meticulous, patient-centered approach. His state-certified surgical facility, on-site board-certified anesthesiologist, and commitment to 150 hours of continuing medical education every three years reflect the highest standards of safety and ongoing clinical competency. To learn more about his background, visit his full physician biography.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If this liposuction FAQ guide has helped you feel more informed and confident, we encourage you to take the next step. Dr. Bohley and his team serve patients throughout Portland, OR and the surrounding region with personalized, expert surgical care. Contact our office to schedule your consultation and begin a conversation tailored entirely to your goals and anatomy.
Visit our contact page to request your consultation.
Dr. Michael Bohley is a double board-certified plastic surgeon recognized as one of Portland’s leading experts in body, breast, and facial cosmetic procedures. With years of advanced training and a distinguished surgical career, he combines refined aesthetic judgment with meticulous technique to deliver consistently exceptional results. Renowned for his skill in tummy tucks, liposuction, breast augmentation, and mommy makeovers, Dr. Bohley develops highly individualized treatment plans to meet each patient’s unique goals. He is also recognized as an Allergan Partner Privileges Gold Member for 2026, reflecting his high level of experience and commitment to providing advanced aesthetic treatments. His dedication to patient education, safety, and precision has earned him membership in numerous prestigious professional organizations and the trust of patients throughout the greater Portland area.
